Silkcotton Purslane
Portulaca halimoides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
2"–12" H × 4"–16" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, NM and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Silkcotton purslane is a low-growing succulent that forms dense mats with small, fleshy leaves and tiny flowers. This drought-tolerant annual blooms from June through September. Its compact size makes it suitable for ground cover or rock garden applications.
In an HOA neighborhood
Silkcotton Purslane takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Mat-forming growth can appear uncontrolled
- Annual nature means gaps and bare spots
- Small flowers and informal appearance may look weedy
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract bees and beetles during the summer blooming period. As a native succulent, it provides habitat for small desert-adapted insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Silkcotton Purslane need?
- Silkcotton Purslane grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Silkcotton Purslane bloom?
- Silkcotton Purslane blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Silkcotton Purslane native?
- Silkcotton Purslane (Portulaca halimoides) is native to AZ, CA, CO, NM and 4 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Silkcotton Purslane attract?
- Silkcotton Purslane draws bees and beetles.
- Is Silkcotton Purslane HOA-friendly?
- Silkcotton Purslane takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Silkcotton Purslane? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz